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PVR → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (Puerto Vallarta) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range and a superior view of the Phoenix skyline and landmarks like Camelback Mountain during the landing sequence.
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Sierra Madre Occidental
Rugged, high-altitude peaks and deep green canyons that dominate the view for the first half of the flight.
Mazatlán Coastline
Views of the 'Pearl of the Pacific' and its iconic lighthouse hill as you track north.
Sonoran Desert Interior
A vast expanse of saguaro-filled valleys and dry riverbeds as the plane enters Arizona.
Downtown Phoenix
Clear views of the city's central high-rises during the northern or eastern approach into Sky Harbor.
South Mountain Park
One of the largest municipal parks in the US, featuring unique ridges just moments before touchdown.
Sit on the right for the best morning light, as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft. This side is particularly rewarding during the descent into PHX, as most flight patterns pass directly over or north of the city center. Keep your camera ready for the dramatic change from tropical green to desert copper.
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Banderas Bay
Panoramic views of the deep blue bay and the Pacific horizon immediately after takeoff from PVR.
Islas Marías
A glimpse of the small archipelago off the coast of Nayarit, formerly a historic island prison.
Sea of Cortez
The vast 'Aquarium of the World' stretches out to the west, showcasing a distinct turquoise coastline.
El Pinacate
Dark volcanic fields and craters visible near the border region of Sonora and Arizona.
The left side is best for afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific, though glare can be intense. Look for the stark contrast where the arid Sonoran landscape meets the Gulf of California. Avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the coastline.
Get eSIMs for Mexico
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,567 km (974 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 5 min
Departure: PVR (20.680099487304688, -105.25399780273438)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: International
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